At the outset, let me say that yes, I am a big Coldplay fan and have been so for quite some time. Their album A Rush Of Blood To The Head is one of my all-time favourites. So naturally, I waited eagerly for the release of their much hyped X and Y. I had followed all the press write-ups carefully. I had read all about how the album was kept under a shroud of secrecy to beat the Internet Pirates, how reviewers were made to sign Non Disclosure Agreements, how the review copies of the album were sent out disguised as a fictitious debut album by a fictitious band called The Fir Trees!
Sadly, all this hype amounted to nought. X and Y is a big, big disappointment. It completely lacks the magic of Parachutes and A Rush of Blood. The songs sound distinctly tired, even monotonous. Chris Martin’s vocals were never much to listen to, but since the songs were so good, one overlooked the voice factor. But on this album, it really gets on your nerves!
Okay, a quick look at the flip side. At least the band retains its inherently acoustic charm, with the songs being built on piano and guitar. So even if the songs aren’t up to the mark, the band has been true to their sound. They still sound like Coldplay and not some unknown band.
Recommendation: No, not really, I wouldn’t recommend this, particularly if you are a Coldplay fan. Stick with Parachutes and A Rush of Blood To The Head. Pretend this album was never released.